[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 154 (Friday, November 18, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2404]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     CONFERENCE REPORT ON H.R. 3058

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. EARL BLUMENAUER

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 17, 2005

  Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I support the Conference Committee 
Report on the Transportation, Treasury, HUD, Judiciary Appropriations 
Act 2006, which provides essential funding for important infrastructure 
projects in Oregon and the rest of the nation. The bill provides $18 
million to complete the Interstate MAX light rail project, which has 
been an incredible success in North Portland. Additionally, $15 million 
for a commuter rail project between. Wilsonville and Beaverton will 
provide further transportation alternatives in the region and anchor 
important development projects in each of these suburban cities.
  I was heartened to see the $1.3 billion set aside for Amtrak. I am 
concerned, however, that the bill separates Amtrak's operations funding 
from its capital funding, essentially allowing the Department of 
Transportation to serve as a steward for Amtrak's capital money, 
handing out grants for approved projects. I am wary of this being yet 
another attempt by the administration to dismantle America's passenger 
rail system.
  I am relieved to see that the Conference Committee did not eliminate 
funding for valuable for HUD programs such as Community Development 
Block Grants and the HOPE VI program. I am concerned, however, that 
many of these programs continue to be underfunded. The many individuals 
and families displaced by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita will increase 
demand for these valuable programs.
  Despite these faults, the bill will fund important infrastructure 
improvements, create jobs, and make our communities safer, healthier 
and more economically secure.

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